Who we are
We are a competitive, growth-focused volleyball club committed to developing athletes both on and off the court. Our coaching staff brings a wide range of experience, from youth development to collegiate athletics, allowing us to meet athletes where they are and help them reach their full potential.
We believe that development goes beyond just skill work. Our goal is to build confident, resilient athletes who understand the value of hard work, accountability, and a strong mindset. Every practice and competition is an opportunity to improve, learn, and compete with purpose.
We also value and support multi-sport athletes. We believe that playing multiple sports builds well-rounded competitors, reduces burnout, and develops athleticism, coordination, and mental toughness that translates directly to volleyball. We encourage athletes to pursue different opportunities and trust that those experiences will only make them better in the long run.
Our environment is built on high standards, strong relationships, and a genuine passion for the game. We challenge our athletes to step outside of their comfort zones while providing the support they need to grow. We emphasize being great teammates, strong communicators, and leaders both on and off the court.
At the core of who we are is a commitment to the process. We believe that when athletes learn to trust their training, embrace challenges, and stay consistent, success will follow. Our mission is to help players not only become better volleyball athletes, but also confident, driven individuals prepared for whatever comes next.
Meet the COACHES
-
Brianna "Bri" strong
Director of Operations/ “Coach of Coaches”
Bri is a highly experienced coach with over 14 years in the game and a strong background at the highest levels of collegiate volleyball. Originally from Mount Vernon, Iowa, Bri competed in high school and club before continuing her career at the University of Northern Colorado (NCAA Division I), where she played middle blocker.Bri’s playing career is decorated with success, including being a high school state champion in both volleyball and basketball, a 3-time All-State and All-Conference First Team selection, and a 3-time Big Sky Conference Champion. She also earned Big Sky All-Conference honors and set a conference record during her collegiate career. Her success continued into coaching, contributing to five Midwest Conference Championships at Cornell College, a 2021 RMAC Championship at Colorado Mesa University, 10 NCAA appearances and a AVCA Beach National Championship.
Her coaching experience spans both the club and collegiate levels, including roles with EVA, Eastern Iowa Xtreme (Club Director), Cornell College (NCAA Division III), and Colorado Mesa University (NCAA DII).
Bri is known for her calm, collected, and intentional coaching style, paired with a highly competitive mindset. She thrives on the daily challenge of helping athletes improve, while also valuing the deeper impact of coaching—developing confident, resilient, and self-aware young women through sport.
She emphasizes that true confidence comes from within, encouraging her athletes to trust their preparation and believe in themselves rather than relying on external validation.
Outside of volleyball, Bri enjoys reading, baking, and spending time with family and friends.
Her advice to young athletes is to become a student of the game—always seeking ways to improve by asking questions, and focusing on growth. She also stresses the importance of communication, accountability, and being a great teammate, as those qualities are essential for both individual and team success.
-
Chelsea Jones
Co-Director/Recruiting Coordinator/ 15s Head Coach
Chelsea brings six years of coaching experience and a competitive playing background as a setter on the court. Originally from Pasco, Washington, she played both high school and club volleyball, and competed successfully at a high level and earned multiple wins in Open and AA doubles events in adult summer tournaments. Chelsea has spent six years coaching club volleyball, where she has developed a reputation for building confident, independent athletes.
Chelsea will also serve as the club’s Recruiting Coordinator, helping guide athletes and families through the recruiting process with clarity, organization, and a player-first approach.
Known for her direct and detail-oriented coaching style, Chelsea emphasizes the importance of confidence above all else. She believes that believing in yourself is the foundation for improvement, and that a confident mistake provides far more opportunity for growth than a hesitant effort.
Chelsea finds the greatest reward in coaching through watching her athletes grow—not just as volleyball players, but as individuals. She is passionate about helping players develop both their skills and their mindset, creating a balance between discipline and enjoyment.
Outside of the gym, Chelsea enjoys playing beach volleyball and spending time with her dogs, husband and their child.
Her advice to young athletes is to never separate the joy of the game from the work it takes to improve. True success comes from blending passion with perseverance, making excellence and enjoyment part of the same journey.
-
Annemarie "AC" Chin
Social Media Director/ 17s Head Coach
AC is a collegiate assistant volleyball coach with over 10 years of coaching experience, including seven at the collegiate level. Originally from Tallahassee, Florida, Annemarie has been immersed in the game since she was 11 years old and went on to become a four-year starting libero at High Point University (NCAA Division I).
During her collegiate career, she recorded 1,907 career digs—third most in program history—and earned multiple honors including First Team All-Big South, Second Team All-Big South, and All-Freshman Team recognition. Her senior season was highlighted by leading the Big South Conference in digs with 662, ranking among the top defensive players in the country.
Annemarie’s coaching journey includes experience at the club, high school, and collegiate levels, with programs such as Tallahassee Juniors Volleyball Club, Leon High School, Earlham College, CSU Pueblo, and now Colorado Mesa. She has also worked extensively with camps, clinics, and youth development.
What truly sets Annemarie apart is her passion and authenticity. She describes coaching as a place where she gets to be her “most authentic self” and live out her passion every day. She thrives on creating a safe, energetic environment where athletes can grow, connect, and “make some magic happen together.” For Annemarie, volleyball is more than just a sport—it’s a powerful vehicle for growth, self-discovery, and building confidence.
Her coaching style is built on relationships first. She believes trust is the foundation—“I connect first 1v1 before I even begin to coach”—and from there, everything else follows. Known as a “player’s coach,” she brings high energy, celebrates the small wins, and lives by the mindset: how you do anything is how you do everything.
Annemarie emphasizes being present in the moment, trusting the process, and finding the balance between patience and persistence. She challenges her athletes to take ownership of their mental and physical space, embrace opportunities, and build habits that will pay off long-term.
Outside of the gym, Annemarie loves being active and outdoors. You can often find her playing pickleball at Lincoln Park for hours at a time, or hiking, camping, trail running, and exploring everything Grand Junction has to offer with her community.
Her advice to young athletes is to grow all aspects of their game and not be afraid to be vulnerable. She encourages players to communicate, stay connected with their teammates, and embrace new challenges—because that’s where real growth happens.
-
Matt Jones
15s Assistant Coach
Matt is a dedicated coach with three years of volleyball coaching experience and a strong background in athlete development. A Colorado native, Matt brings a unique perspective to coaching, combining his experience as a competitive athlete in grass and sand volleyball with his background as a high school golf coach.
Matt has coached three seasons of club volleyball and has also worked camps at Colorado Mesa University. In addition, he brings six seasons of experience as a high school golf coach, where he developed athletes through a focus on discipline, consistency, and personal growth.
Matt has competed in grass and sand tournaments and has experience playing multiple positions. His diverse background allows him to connect with athletes and teach the game from a well-rounded perspective.
Matt is known for his fun, intentional, and persistent coaching style. He is passionate about helping athletes grow not only in their skills, but also as individuals—focusing on effort, mindset, and accountability both on and off the court.
He emphasizes giving your best in everything you do, encouraging athletes to take pride in their effort and approach to the game.
Outside of volleyball, Matt enjoys golfing and staying active.
His advice to young athletes is to never put limits on their potential. Every rep matters, and consistent effort is what leads to long-term success.
-
Barbara "Barb" Kapustin
17s Assistant Coach
Barb is an up-and-coming coach who brings a competitive playing background and a thoughtful, intentional approach to the game. Originally from Nyack, New York, Barbara played collegiate volleyball at Franklin & Marshall College (NCAA DIII) and competed in the NCAA Tournament, gaining valuable experience at a high level of play.
She has coached for a local club and at various volleyball camps, where she has already made an impact in her first year of coaching by helping athletes build strong fundamentals and confidence in their skills.
Barb played as a pin hitter, competing on both the outside and right side, giving her a well-rounded understanding of the game and offensive systems. She is known for her intentional, disciplined, and strategic coaching style, focusing on helping athletes think through the game while developing technical skills.
What Barb enjoys most about coaching is seeing athletes grow—especially in those moments when a skill finally “clicks.” She emphasizes mental resilience as a core value, helping players learn how to stay strong, focused, and confident through challenges.
Outside of volleyball, Barbara enjoys playing beach volleyball and staying active.
Her advice to young athletes is to play multiple sports and watch as many levels and styles of volleyball as possible—from college to professional to beach. She especially encourages watching in person, as it provides a deeper understanding and appreciation of the game.
-
Erin Rhoads
14s Assistant Coach
Erin brings over 10 years of coaching experience and a genuine passion for the game to every gym she steps into. Originally from Littleton, Colorado, Erin played competitive volleyball throughout high school and continued at the collegiate club level. Today, she still competes in local indoor leagues and beach volleyball tournaments, staying connected to the game she loves.
Erin currently serves as an Assistant Professor at Colorado Mesa University, and her background in education naturally carries into her coaching. She has worked with athletes at a variety of levels, including CMU club volleyball, Columbine High School (all four levels), Gold Crown, Mesa Juniors, and numerous camps with both clubs and colleges.
For Erin, coaching is about more than just skill development—it’s about sharing a game that has meant so much to her and helping athletes find that same connection. She values the opportunity to teach, mentor, and support players as they grow both on and off the court.
Her coaching style is positive, supportive, and growth-focused. She works to create an environment where athletes feel confident taking risks, embracing challenges, and trusting the work they’ve put in. Confidence is a core value in her coaching, and she emphasizes building athletes who believe in themselves and their abilities in any situation.
Outside of volleyball, Erin enjoys playing beach volleyball, hiking, reading, and spending time with her dog.
Her advice to young athletes is to focus on the fundamentals, stay coachable, and play with confidence—because those habits will carry you further than anything else.
-
Kerstin "Kert" Layman
14s Head Coach
Kerstin is a former collegiate athlete and experienced coach who brings energy, discipline, and a passion for development to the court. Originally from Littleton, Colorado, Kerstin played volleyball from a young age and continued her career at Colorado Mesa University, where she competed for five years as a libero/defensive specialist and also spent two seasons playing beach volleyball.
During her time at CMU, Kerstin earned 2x RMAC Defensive Player of the Year honors and was a 4x All-RMAC selection, establishing herself as one of the top defensive players in the conference.
Kerstin has coached at the club level, primarily working with middle school and developmental athletes, and has also worked numerous camps at CMU while providing private lessons. She has a strong passion for teaching the game and helping athletes build a solid foundation in their skills.
She is known for her fast-paced, fun, and development-focused coaching style. Kerstin enjoys creating an environment where athletes can learn new skills, grow their confidence, and develop a love for the game.
Resilience is a key value in her coaching, as she works to help athletes push through challenges and stay committed to their growth.
Outside of volleyball, Kerstin enjoys spending time outdoors—especially hiking, camping, and paddle boarding.
Her advice to young athletes is simple: have fun. Enjoy the game, embrace the process, and make the most of every opportunity to play.
-
Aesha "Keesh" Alrashed
16s Head Coach
Keesh is a dedicated student-athlete and coach who brings four years of coaching experience and a strong competitive background to the court. Originally from Greeley, Colorado, Aesha played collegiate volleyball after winning a high school state championship, developing both her skills and passion for the game at a high level.
As a middle blocker, Aesha understands the importance of discipline, timing, and teamwork, and she brings that same focus into her coaching. She has gained experience coaching camps throughout her college career and has provided private lessons during the summers, helping athletes improve their fundamentals and confidence.
Aesha is known for her encouraging and supportive coaching style, with a strong emphasis on player development. She is passionate about building relationships with her athletes and creating an environment where players feel motivated to grow both on and off the court.
She values resilience and works to instill that mindset in her athletes, helping them push through challenges and stay committed to their progress.
Outside of volleyball, Aesha enjoys trying new foods and traveling.
Her advice to young athletes is to remember why they started playing and to fall in love with the journey of the sport—not just the outcome.
-
Addie Swanson
16s Assistant Coach
Addie is a dedicated and passionate volleyball coach with six years of coaching experience and a strong background as a competitive setter. Originally from Bozeman, Montana, Addie played both club and high school volleyball before continuing her career at Colorado Mesa University, where she competed for two years.
During her club career, Addie helped lead her team to an impressive second-place finish at Nationals in Phoenix in 2020. At CMU, she redshirted her freshman year and went on to run a 6-2 offense as a redshirt freshman. She appeared in all 28 matches, starting in six, and recorded 378 assists and 131 digs—showcasing her leadership and consistency on the court.
Addie’s coaching experience includes working CMU volleyball camps for the past two years, along with several years of providing private setting lessons. Her background as a setter gives her a unique ability to teach game awareness, decision-making, and leadership to her athletes.
She is known for her fun, organized, and positive coaching style, creating an environment where athletes can grow both as players and as individuals. Addie is passionate about helping athletes trust the process, emphasizing that success comes from maintaining a strong, positive mindset while still enjoying the game.
Outside of volleyball, Addie enjoys spending time outdoors—especially hiking—and values time with friends and family.
Her advice to young athletes is simple but powerful: keep your mindset positive. It can be the difference-maker in both your performance and your overall experience in the game.
-
Allison "wally" Waller
15s Head Coach
Wally is a former collegiate athlete and dedicated club coach with five years of coaching experience. Originally from Loveland, Colorado, Allison played college volleyball as a libero at Colorado Mesa University, where she earned Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2023 for her standout performance and leadership on the court. She has also appeared in 4 NCAA tournaments and is a 3 year RMAC All-Conference award winner.
Allison brings experience from coaching private lessons, leading an 11U club team, and working college summer camps. Her background as a libero gives her a strong foundation in defensive systems, ball control, and consistency—skills she is passionate about passing on to her athletes.
She is known for her detail-oriented coaching style, focusing on the fundamentals and helping athletes refine their technique to reach the next level. Allison thrives on the competitive nature of the sport and enjoys pushing athletes outside of their comfort zones so they can grow and succeed.
She emphasizes that volleyball is a game of mistakes, and success comes from giving your full effort, staying mentally tough, and being a great teammate.
Outside of volleyball, Allison enjoys cooking and spending time with her two cats.
Her advice to young athletes is to master the fundamentals, stay coachable, communicate constantly, and take care of your body. Above all, she encourages players to stay consistent and enjoy the game.
-
Addi Wright
13s Head Coach
Addi is a driven student-athlete and coach with five years of coaching experience and an extensive playing background. Originally from Dubuque, Iowa, Addison played club volleyball for 10 years and was a 6-rotation outside hitter who started varsity all four years of high school. Addi was a multi-sport athlete and competed in basketball and track. She now competes as a libero at Colorado Mesa University.
Addi’s high school career was filled with impressive accomplishments, including earning First Team All-Conference, All-District, and All-Area honors, along with serving as team captain for three consecutive years. She helped lead her team to a conference championship and surpassed 1,000 digs and 800 kills during her career—demonstrating both versatility and consistency on the court.
Her coaching experience includes three years of club coaching at the 11U and 13U levels, working youth camps throughout high school, and coaching a variety of camps through CMU. She has also spent three years providing one-on-one lessons for athletes ages 10–15, helping them build strong fundamentals and confidence.
Addi is known for her competitive, determined, and open-minded coaching style. She is passionate about creating a positive and safe environment where athletes can grow both on and off the court, while also building meaningful relationships that support their development.
She emphasizes that volleyball is about more than just the game—what athletes invest in their mindset and effort will carry over into success beyond the court.
Outside of volleyball, Addi enjoys playing spikeball and going on runs.
Her advice to young athletes is simple: anything is achievable, even if others doubt you. The more you invest in yourself, the more you will get out of the game.
-
Hallie Hewlett
13s Assistant Coach
Hallie is a collegiate volleyball player and rising coach who brings energy, passion, and high-level playing experience to the court. Originally from Bountiful, Utah, Hallie has competed in high school, club, and college volleyball, building a strong foundation in the game as a setter.
Her playing career includes winning a high school state championship her junior year and being part of a standout club team that won the 2021 USAV National Championship. Her team also made four Open Division appearances at Nationals and finished the season ranked No. 3 in the country—highlighting her experience competing at an elite level.
Hallie has gained coaching experience over several summers working with athletes at her former club, where she has helped develop young players while sharing her love for the game.
She is known for her fun, positive, and tough coaching style, creating an environment where athletes are encouraged to grow while being challenged to reach their full potential. Hallie loves watching players fall in love with volleyball and values the opportunity to build meaningful, lasting relationships with her athletes.
She emphasizes that volleyball—and life—are not about perfection, but about effort, growth, and enjoying the process.
Outside of volleyball, Hallie enjoys playing spikeball and pickleball, spending time with friends, and being outdoors.
Her advice to young athletes is to enjoy every moment. The time spent playing volleyball is special and goes by quickly, so approach each practice and game with gratitude for the opportunity to compete.
-
Lizette Ramirez Anderson
11s Head Coach
Lizette is a dedicated coach and educator who brings passion, resilience, and a strong playing background to the court. A Grand Junction, Colorado native, Lizette played high school volleyball at Fruita Monument High School, club volleyball with Grand Junction VBC, and continued her career at Trinidad State Junior College.
During her collegiate career, Lizette earned a full-ride scholarship and was named Libero MVP in her sophomore year, showcasing her work ethic and defensive skill. She has experience playing both outside hitter and libero, giving her a well-rounded understanding of the game.
Lizette has coached with Grand Junction Volleyball Club and is known for creating a fun yet challenging environment where athletes are pushed to grow. She is especially passionate about helping players build confidence through their own hard work and resilience, and she finds the most joy in those moments when everything “clicks” for an athlete.
She emphasizes the importance of mindset, teaching her athletes not to dwell on mistakes. Instead, she encourages them to recognize, adjust, and move forward—helping both individuals and teams stay mentally strong and supportive of one another.
Outside of volleyball, Lizette enjoys spending time with her boys and being in the mountains. She also works as an educator and is a seasonal hand and beekeeper in training at Z’s Orchard.
Her advice to young athletes is to trust the process. Growth takes time, consistency, and persistence, but with hard work and a positive mindset, progress will come.
-
Lauren Waters
11s & 15s Assistant Coach
Lauren is a passionate coach with three years of experience and a strong playing background across high school, club, and collegiate volleyball. Originally from Highland, Utah, Lauren competed at a high level, earning All-Region First Team honors and winning the Triple Crown tournament in Salt Lake City. She also played on one of the top 17s teams in Utah, gaining valuable experience in competitive club volleyball.
Lauren played both middle blocker and right side, giving her a versatile understanding of offensive systems and front-row play. Her coaching experience includes working with Club V, Mesa Juniors, and Colorado Mesa University camps, where she has helped athletes develop their skills and confidence.
She is known for her calm, passionate, and intentional coaching style, paired with a kind and observant approach that allows her to connect with athletes and support their growth. Lauren enjoys helping young players fall in love with the game while building strong fundamentals.
She emphasizes the importance of mindset, encouraging athletes not to dwell on mistakes but instead focus on the next play and continue moving forward.
Outside of volleyball, Lauren enjoys hiking and spending time outdoors.
-
Bailee Tucker
12s Head Coach
Bailee is a dedicated club coach and learning assistant with three years of coaching experience and a strong background as a collegiate volleyball player. Originally from Utah, Bailee has competed at both the club and college levels, earning multiple tournament wins throughout her playing career.
Bailee has coached at Northridge High School, Club V Volleyball in Utah, and Midnight Sun Volleyball Club in Alaska, giving her experience working with athletes across a variety of levels and environments. As a former opposite and middle blocker, she brings a strong understanding of front-row play, physicality, and discipline to her coaching.
She is known for her growth-focused coaching style, holding athletes to high standards while creating an encouraging environment where players feel supported as they develop. Bailee is passionate about helping athletes build confidence and resilience, especially at a young age, and emphasizes falling in love with the process rather than just focusing on results.
She believes practice is where growth happens—encouraging athletes to embrace challenges, step outside their comfort zones, and view mistakes as essential to improvement.
Outside of volleyball, Bailee enjoys reading and hiking.
Her advice to young athletes is to not be afraid to struggle in practice. That is where true development happens, and consistent effort in training will prepare you to perform with confidence in competition.
-
Maya Grant
12s Assistant Coach
Maya is an up-and-coming coach and current athlete who brings energy, leadership, and a strong competitive background to the court. Originally from Salt Lake City, Utah, Maya has played high school and club volleyball and is a libero on the Colorado Mesa Volleyball Team.
During her playing career, Maya helped lead her team to a state championship and a state runner-up finish, showcasing her impact as a libero and her ability to compete at a high level.
Maya has gained coaching experience through working numerous camps and assisting with coaching younger athletes at the 11U level within her club. She is passionate about helping players build their skills while also creating strong, meaningful relationships with her athletes.
She is known for her competitive, disciplined, and supportive coaching style, and places a strong emphasis on leadership—encouraging athletes to take ownership, communicate, and lead both on and off the court.
Maya loves seeing athletes improve each day and values the connections built through the sport just as much as the development on the court.
Outside of volleyball, she enjoys spending time outdoors and staying active.
Her advice to young athletes is simple: don’t wait—go get it. Take initiative, work hard, and chase your goals with confidence.
Contact us
Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!